NEWS –The 2025 US Open has introduced significant changes to the mixed doubles format to attract bigger stars and increase its popularity.

HIGHLIGHTS

What is the new format?

• Mixed doubles will now be played separately over two days (August 19-20), before the main singles draw starts on August 24.
• Only 16 teams will participate:
  • 8 teams will gain direct entry based on combined singles rankings.
  • 8 teams will receive wildcard entries.
• Match format changes:
  • Best-of-three sets, but played till 4 games per set (instead of 6).
  • Tiebreakers at 4-4, not 6-6.
  • Only the final match will follow a traditional Grand Slam format.
• Prize money: $1 million, expected to attract big-name players.

How have players reacted?

• Negative reactions from doubles specialists:
  • Sara Errani & Andrea Vavassori (2024 winners): Called it a “profound injustice” and criticized it as an “exhibition focused on entertainment and profit.”
  • Ellen Perez (Australian pro): Mocked the change, implying it disrespects doubles players.
  • Rohan Bopanna (India’s top doubles player): Criticized the format for excluding doubles specialists, limiting opportunities for Indian players.

Has doubles become a sideshow?

• Earlier generations prioritized doubles, e.g.,
  • John McEnroe: Won 77 singles & 77 doubles titles.
  • Martina Navratilova: Won 41 Major doubles/mixed titles vs. 18 singles titles.
• Modern singles players avoid doubles due to:
  • Packed 20+ tournament calendar across three surfaces.
  • Higher prize money and ranking points in singles.
• Result: Doubles has lost mainstream relevance.

The economics of doubles in tennis

• Doubles has little commercial value compared to singles.
• Tennis revenue dominated by singles Grand Slams.
• Masters 1000 & WTA 1000 events have extended to two weeks to boost earnings, leaving little space for doubles.
• The US Open’s move is more about maximizing profits than reviving doubles:
  • A separately ticketed event boosts revenue.
  • More broadcasting rights sales if big stars participate.